Experimental study demonstrates favorable mechanical and biological properties in TiZrNb-based high-entropy alloys, indicating their promise for cost-effective orthopedic implants.
Key Points
To develop and evaluate low-cost, non-refractory TiZrNb-based high-entropy alloys with an optimal balance of mechanical, tribocorrosive, and biological properties for orthopedic use.
Designed and synthesized three TiZrNb-based high-entropy alloys incorporating non-refractory elements including iron, manganese, and aluminum.
Characterized alloy microstructures, Vickers microhardness, elastic modulus, and tribocorrosion resistance under wear-corrosion conditions.
Conducted in vitro biological assays to assess cell adhesion and cell viability after 24 hours of exposure.
The alloys exhibited body-centered cubic structures with secondary C14 Laves phase precipitation, yielding high Vickers microhardness (~420 HV) and low elastic modulus (90–100 GPa).
Stable passive films provided wear and corrosion protection during tribocorrosion testing, with in vitro assays showing cell viability and adhesion at 24 hours.
Ti42Zr22Nb20Fe6Mn6Al4 (at.%) demonstrated the most favorable balance of economic, mechanical, physicochemical, and biocompatible performance.